PSC awaits Palace decision on Chito's post

MANILA, Philippines - Philippine Sports Commission chairman Richie Garcia yesterday said it’s up to President Aquino to name the replacement for commissioner Chito Loyzaga who resigned from his post the other day.

Garcia said the sooner the President names the replacement the better.

“It will be up to the President to appoint whoever he thinks will be good for the PSC,” said Garcia.

Loyzaga, the former PBA star who was appointed to the PSC two years ago, resigned so he can have all the time to attend to his ailing father, basketball great Caloy Loyzaga.

Before flying to Australia a few days ago to be with his 82-year-old father, Loyzaga sent his resignation letter to Malacañang.

There’s no word yet who would replace Loyzaga, who did a good job as head of the NSA (national sports association) affairs, and for a time as executive director.

He quit his post as executive director more than a month ago due to what insiders said were “differences” with his fellow PSC officials.

“May hindi kasundo sa PSC,” said a source who added that whoever is tapped as new commissioner should have “an independent mind” and “with the heart for athletes.”

“He doesn’t have to be a former athlete or NSA official. Whoever is appointed should be a good administrative officer,” the source added.

The name of Jeff Tamayo, president of the Philippine Soft Tennis Association, has been mentioned as a candidate even if his name may not sound good for some athletes.

Following Loyzaga’s resignation, the PSC was left with only three commissioners – Salvador Andrada, Akiko Thomson and Jolly Gomez.

Garcia said the replacement should come soon.

“We need a full board right away. We have a lot of things to do this year and we need all the help we can get,” said the chairman.

He was asked if he had any names in mind.

“No one,” Garcia said.